Pastor Tommy L. China, Sr.
Pastor Tommy L. China, Sr., hails from Sumter, South Carolina, as the youngest of two sons born to Frances and Ervin China, Sr. He is happily married to Bernadette G. Fields from Pembroke, GA, and together they have been blessed with a large family: five sons - Tommy, Jr. (TJ) (married to Lorraine), Eric (married to Maggie), Brandon Maurice (married to Crystal), Mackenzie, and Phillip; two daughters - Alexandria and Shalaina; along with nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
In summary, Pastor Tommy L. China, Sr., is a devoted servant of God, dedicated family man, and advocate for justice, whose life exemplifies faith, perseverance, and service to others.
His Story
Growing up in Sumter County, Pastor China attended Stone Hill Elementary School, Bates Junior High School, and Sumter High School, graduating in 1973. Later, he pursued further education at Sumter Area Technical College and the South Carolina School of Real Estate, obtaining his Property Management In-Charge License.
Throughout his life, Pastor China has held various roles, including industrial maintenance technician, plant engineer, property manager, paint and body shop owner, and barbecue restaurant manager/owner. Beyond his professional endeavors, he has also been deeply involved in the Atlanta GA 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry of the Black Buffalo Soldiers Reenactment Group, serving as Chaplain and sharing the history of Black Soldiers while spreading the message of Jesus Christ.
Moreover, Pastor China is gifted in singing and has utilized this talent to glorify God as a member of several gospel groups, including "The Mighty Soul Searchers," "No Name Gospel Singers," "Gospel Truth" Beulah Harmonies, and the New Birth Praise & Worship Team and Male Chorus.
In 1998, he answered the call to preach and embarked on a journey of ministry, receiving training and education through various programs and associations. He has served as Pastor of Roundtree Chapel Baptist Church and Assistant Pastor of Old Bethel Baptist Church, among other leadership roles, and is committed to continuous spiritual growth and development. Pastor China also serves as a member of the Ministers’ Division of the State Congress of Christian Education.
Pastor China's passion for ministry, love for his family, and dedication to social justice, as evidenced by his membership in the NAACP, reflect his deep-rooted faith and commitment to serving others. Elected as Pastor of First Union Missionary Baptist Church in 2021, he remains steadfast in his belief that with God's strength, all things are possible, as encapsulated in his favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13.